BAT Kenya reports progress on gender diversity, emissions reduction

BAT Kenya has reported significant strides in meeting its sustainability and diversity goals, according to its 2024 Combined Annual and Sustainability Report, unveiled during the company's 73rd Annual General Meeting.

The report highlights that women now represent 69% of the company’s senior leadership team—well above its 2025 target of 45%. The company also trained 208 women from its contracted tobacco farming community in financial literacy, as part of the Ksh.10 million multi-year Rural Women’s Development Programme (RuWDeP).

In a move towards more sustainable agriculture, the company reported that over 98% of its contracted farmers grew alternative crops in 2024, including maize and avocados, in addition to tobacco.

On environmental performance, BAT Kenya recorded a 54% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions in 2024, exceeding its 2030 target of a 50% reduction from 2020 levels. This was supported by ongoing investments in renewable energy, including KSh145 million spent on solar infrastructure between 2021 and 2022. The company now generates 1,400 kilowatt-peak (kWp) of electricity from onsite solar systems.

As a result of its environmental initiatives, BAT Kenya received multiple awards at the 2025 Energy Management Awards (EMAs), hosted by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers. The company was recognized for achievements in renewable energy use, transport and thermal energy savings, and consistent performance in energy management.

BAT Kenya Managing Director and General Manager for BAT East and Southern Africa, Crispin Achola, noted the company’s ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability into its business operations.

“We are pleased with the progress made on our priorities, including emissions reduction, sustainable agriculture, and advancing diversity and inclusion,” said Achola. “Our combined financial and sustainability reporting reflects our commitment to transparency and accountability.”

Looking ahead, the company stated it will continue to focus on its core sustainability pillars: tobacco harm reduction, climate action, biodiversity, circular economy practices, and community engagement.